The Knicks announced the signing of 6-10 journeyman Solomon Jones instead of James Singleton, to add big-man insurance in light of the spate of injuries. The deal fell through with Singleton, due to Chinese Basketball Association red tape.

Jones is taller and younger at age 28. He had played with the Clippers last season and was cut by Phoenix in training camp before also going to China, like the 6-8 Singleton.

“He’s a big-time shot-blocker, an athletic big. He’s going to fit in with what the Knicks want to do,” Jones’ agent, Mark Bartelstein, said.

Bartelstein added that Jones is cleared to play Friday night against the Cavaliers as the Knicks are without Tyson Chandler (neck), Kenyon Martin (ankle) and Marcus Camby (foot). Kurt Thomas, who had a stress fracture in his right foot and was unlikely to return this season, was waived to make room for Jones. It’s believed Thomas played through the injury for 27 minutes during a win in Utah on March 18, his final appearance of the season.

“Kurt’s contributions to the Knicks have been immeasurable,” GM Glen Grunwald said in a statement. “From the first day of training camp, to his last game against the Utah Jazz, Kurt has been a key contributor to our team.

“The team’s success this season has been driven by veteran leadership on and off the court – it is something that cannot be quantified or read in a box score. We thank Kurt for all that he has done. I have the utmost respect for Kurt as a player and as a man.”

Jones averaged 15.8 points and 10.4 rebounds for Liaoning of the CBA. He has also played with the Hornets, Clippers, Pacers and Hawks.

Singleton had joined the club in Chicago awaiting for a deal to be finalized and the club was ready to announce the deal. Singleton had been playing in China and the Knicks were waiting on some “red tape’’ to go through.